Portland Metro Arts

For families and individuals in the Portland, Oregon area with a passion for the performing and visual arts, Portland Metro Arts (PMA) stands as a vibrant and accessible community hub. Established in 1978, originally as Ballet Workshop Advocates, PMA has evolved into a comprehensive non-profit arts organization dedicated to providing affordable and quality arts education and performance opportunities to everyone, regardless of their background or income level. It's a place where creativity is nurtured, talents are honed, and a love for the arts is ignited in students of all ages.

Portland Metro Arts offers a wide array of programs in dance, music, theatre, and visual arts, making it a "one-stop arts programming for the family" that aims to enrich lives and encourage new perspectives through artistic expression. While some logistical aspects like parking might require a bit of planning, the positive experiences shared by many highlight the engaging curriculum and the diverse, welcoming atmosphere. This article will explore what makes Portland Metro Arts a significant point of interest for anyone in the Oregon region looking to engage with the arts.

Portland Metro Arts is conveniently located at 9003 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97216, USA. This location in Southeast Portland makes it highly accessible for residents throughout the tri-county area and even SW Washington, thanks to its easy access to light-rail, bus, and freeway connections. The TriMet No. 15 bus (West-bound on Stark St.) conveniently stops directly at their front corner, at 90th & Stark, with the East-bound bus stop just one block away at 90th & Washington St.

While one review mentions challenges with shady parking and outdoor play areas, PMA does state that off-street parking is available in their private lot. It's also important to consider the excellent public transport links which offer a viable alternative for commuting. The facility itself is described as humming with creative energy, offering a variety of programs in a well-equipped space. Its accessibility, particularly via public transit, is a significant advantage for families seeking arts education without extensive driving.

Portland Metro Arts provides a diverse and comprehensive range of affordable classes, workshops, camps, private lessons, and performance opportunities across four key artistic disciplines. Their commitment is to offer arts education and experiences to kids and adults alike, fostering a holistic development. Here's a detailed look at the services they offer:

• Dance Programs: PMA's core Dance program includes classes in:
  • Pre-Dance (for young children, likely ages 3-5)
  • Ballet (introductory and advanced classes for both kids and adults)
  • Tap
  • Hip Hop
  • Contemporary Jazz
  The academy is also home to the Metro Dancers, a company of pre-professional and professional dancers who offer a full season of performances, including a full-length ballet production every Spring.
• Music Programs: PMA's music program offers both group and private lessons in a variety of instruments and vocal training:
  • Piano
  • Violin
  • Viola
  • Cello
  • Guitar
  • Voice
  • Music Theory
  • Musical Beginnings and Musical Journeys for younger students.
• Theatre Programs: The Theatre program focuses on developing stage presence, character portrayal, and overall theatrical skills for kids aged 6 to middle school. Classes teach:
  • Improvisation
  • Character development
  • Acting technique
  • Public speaking
  • Performance skills
• Visual Arts Programs: The Visual Art program offers a survey of artistic styles and mediums for grade-school students, encouraging creativity and individual expression. One review specifically mentioned digital art opportunities.
• Summer Camps: PMA offers exciting, educational, and engaging week-long, all-day camps during the summer for children in pre-school through grade 6, and workshops for middle school, high school, and adults. These camps provide opportunities to explore:
  • 4 Arts (combination of dance, music, theatre, visual arts)
  • Masks, Myths & Legends
  • All About Art
  • Music A la Carte
  • Dancing Princess Mystery
  • The Play's the Thing
  • Way off Broadway
  • Brush Up Your Shakespeare (workshop for older students)
• After-School Care: Quality supervised after-school care is available, with transportation from select area schools, providing a convenient solution for working parents.
• Private Lessons: Available across various disciplines for more personalized instruction.

Portland Metro Arts stands out in the Oregon community due to several compelling features and highlights that align with its mission of accessible arts education:

• Affordable and Accessible Arts Education: A primary highlight is PMA's commitment to making arts education available to "everyone, regardless of income level, race, religion, gender or national origin." This dedication to affordability and inclusivity is a cornerstone of their mission.
• Diverse Program Offerings: Unlike many specialized studios, PMA provides a comprehensive range of classes in dance, music, theatre, and visual arts all under one roof. This "one-stop" approach is incredibly convenient for families with children interested in multiple artistic disciplines.
• Experienced and Friendly Staff: Customer reviews consistently praise the "nice staff" and their ability to make classes enjoyable. While one review mentioned some staff being "a bit scary" (likely referring to the intensity of artistic discipline rather than actual threat), the overall sentiment points to a supportive learning environment.
• Focus on Youth Development: PMA's programs are heavily geared towards youth, fostering creativity, discipline, and performance skills from a young age. Summer camps are particularly lauded for helping children have a "really good time" and learn new skills like acting and singing.
• Cultural Diversity and Appreciation: The academy emphasizes learning songs from "different cultures" and the appreciation for "diversity in the student population." This commitment to multiculturalism enriches the learning experience and broadens students' perspectives.
• Performance Opportunities: Through resident companies like the Metro Dancers and various student showcases, PMA provides ample opportunities for students to perform and gain valuable stage experience, a crucial aspect of performing arts education.
• Community-Oriented Non-Profit: As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, PMA relies on community support to continue providing quality arts education, demonstrating its deep connection to and reliance on the local community. They also engage in work parties to maintain their facility, showing active community involvement.
• Flexible Scheduling: With after-school, weekend classes, and various camp options (full-day and half-day), PMA aims to suit diverse family schedules.

For those in the Portland, Oregon area interested in exploring the rich artistic programs offered by Portland Metro Arts, or to inquire about enrollment, schedules, and specific class details, you can reach out through the following contact information:

Address: 9003 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97216, USA

Phone: (503) 408-0604

Mobile Phone: +1 503-408-0604

It is highly recommended to visit their official website for the most current information on class offerings, registration processes, tuition fees, and special events. You can also contact them directly via phone or email to speak with their staff, who can assist you in finding the perfect program for your or your child's artistic aspirations.

For families and individuals across the Oregon region, particularly in Portland and its surrounding areas, Portland Metro Arts stands as a highly suitable and invaluable community asset. Its comprehensive approach to arts education, combined with a strong emphasis on accessibility and community, makes it an ideal choice for local residents.

Firstly, the strategic location in SE Portland with excellent access to public transportation (TriMet bus stops right at the corner) ensures that quality arts education is within easy reach for many. While parking may require some planning, the overall accessibility makes it a practical option for busy local families. This direct community presence is key to its suitability, providing a convenient and local hub for artistic exploration.

Secondly, PMA's core mission of providing affordable arts education to "everyone, regardless of income level, race, religion, gender or national origin," deeply resonates with Portland's community values. This commitment to inclusivity means that more children and adults have the opportunity to engage with dance, music, theatre, and visual arts, fostering creativity and personal growth across diverse demographics. Parents consistently commend the staff for their engaging teaching methods and the fun atmosphere, making it a positive learning environment despite any minor logistical concerns.

Furthermore, the breadth of programs offered – from ballet and hip hop to piano and visual arts, along with popular summer camps – means that PMA can cater to a wide range of interests and age groups under one roof. This versatility is a significant convenience for local families juggling multiple interests. The emphasis on cultural diversity in learning and the opportunities for performance further enrich the experience, helping students not only develop skills but also a broader understanding of the world. For any Oregonian seeking an enriching, affordable, and inclusive arts education experience, Portland Metro Arts is a highly recommended local gem.

Portland Metro Arts

9003 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97216, USA